.DRU File Extension
What is an DRU file?
The .DRU file extension is associated with EAGLE, a popular software tool for designing printed circuit boards (PCBs). This file contains design rules that govern the layout and routing of components on the PCB, ensuring electrical functionality and manufacturability.
More Information.
The .DRU file extension was introduced as a means to specify design rules within EAGLE. These rules include parameters such as trace width, clearance between traces, minimum drill size, and other manufacturing constraints. They ensure that the final PCB design meets electrical requirements and can be fabricated correctly.
Origin Of This File.
The .DRU file extension originates from the EAGLE PCB design software, developed by CadSoft Computer GmbH (now part of Autodesk). EAGLE provides a platform for engineers and designers to create schematics, layout PCBs, and generate manufacturing files.
File Structure Technical Specification.
.DRU files are typically plain text files containing a set of rules written in a specific syntax understood by EAGLE. These rules are organized into sections, each specifying different aspects of the PCB design such as trace width, clearance, annular ring size, etc. The syntax and structure of .DRU files may vary depending on the version of EAGLE being used.
How to Convert the File?
Windows: You can open them in a text editor like Notepad or Notepad++. From there, you can copy the content and paste it into a document or spreadsheet for further processing or conversion.
Linux: You can use a text editor like Vim, Nano, or Gedit to open .DRU files. Then, you can copy the content and save it in a format suitable for your needs.
Mac: You can use text editors like TextEdit or third-party applications such as Sublime Text to open and edit .DRU files. Once opened, you can extract the content and save it in a different format if needed.
Android: You can use text editing apps available on the Google Play Store such as Jota Text Editor or Microsoft Word. Open the .DRU file in the text editor app, copy the content, and then you can paste it into a note-taking app or email it to yourself for further processing on another device.
iOS: You can use text editing apps like Textastic or Documents by Readdle to open and edit .DRU files. Once opened, you can copy the content and paste it into another app or email it for further conversion on another device.
Others: You can use any text editor or viewer capable of handling plain text files to open and extract the content of .DRU files. Then, you can manually convert or process the extracted information as needed.
Advantages And Disadvantages.
Advantages:
- Customization: .DRU files allow for the customization of design rules to suit specific project requirements.
- Consistency: By enforcing design rules, .DRU files ensure consistency across multiple PCB designs.
- Manufacturability: Design rules specified in .DRU files help in ensuring that the PCB design can be manufactured reliably.
Disadvantages:
- Complexity: Understanding and defining design rules in .DRU files may require expertise in PCB design and familiarity with EAGLE software.
- Potential Errors: Incorrectly defined design rules can lead to manufacturing issues and PCB failures.
How to Open DRU?
Open In Windows
.DRU files can be opened in EAGLE software on Windows.
Open In Linux
EAGLE software is available for Linux distributions to open .DRU files.
Open In MAC
EAGLE software supports Mac OS for opening .DRU files.
Open In Android
There’s no native support for .DRU files on Android devices.
Open In IOS
There’s no native support for .DRU files on iOS devices.
Open in Others
.DRU files are specific to EAGLE and are primarily meant to be used within the EAGLE software environment.
